Thailand Lifts YouTube Ban

Aug 31, 09:46 AM

Current Headlines: Thailand's military-installed government has lifted its ban on the U.S.-based, video-sharing Web site, YouTube, Financial Times reported Friday.

Sitthichai Pookaiyudom, Thailand's information and technology minister, told the newspaper that YouTube has agreed to block clips identified by the Thai government as violating Thai laws, including legislation prohibiting remarks considered offensive to the monarchy.

YouTube videos blocked in Thailand will, however, remain accessible to Internet users abroad.

It would be like books, the minister said. Some books are banned for sale in Thailand, but you can buy them elsewhere.

Thailand's military government banned domestic access to YouTube in April after anonymous users posted videos mocking the country's 79-year-old King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Strict lese majeste laws make it a serious crime, potentially punishable by up to 15 years in prison, to speak out against the monarchy.